subito
Americanadverb
adverb
Etymology
Origin of subito
First recorded in 1715–25; from Italian, from Latin subitō originally, ablative singular neuter of subitus “sudden,” equivalent to sub- sub- + -i- (base of īre “to go”) + -tus past participle suffix
Explanation
The word subito in sheet music means "suddenly" and is followed by another instruction, such as fortissimo, "very loud," or pianissimo, "very soft." It means to follow that instruction instantly and suddenly. Subito can be followed by any kind of instruction intended to create a surprising contrast for the listener. In addition to fortissimo or pianissimo, or even just forte or piano ("loud" or "soft"), you might see it followed by a variety of other instructions. For example, subito vivace means "suddenly fast," and subito diminuendo means "suddenly getting softer." Subito is often abbreviated to sub.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Rubato in the 13th Variation and subito piano effects in the 12th gave shape to quick figures that might otherwise pass mechanically.
From New York Times • Feb. 8, 2024
But at Pope John Paul II's funeral in 2005, those gathered at St. Peter's Basilica shouted "Santo subito!"
From Time Magazine Archive
Banners proclaimed santo subito, Sainthood Now, and already reports were spreading of miraculous healings by the Pope last week.
From Time Magazine Archive
And I may say of him, as was said of a celebrated poet, Cui unquam poetarum magis proprium fuit subito astro incalescere?
From The works of John Dryden, now first collected in eighteen volumes. Volume 07 by Scott, Walter, Sir
Now there is neither gambling nor hanging; but all day long loafers sit on the steps of the columns and discuss pronto and subito and cinque and all the other topics of Venetian conversation.
From A Wanderer in Venice by Morley, Harry
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
